The boy Franz Liszt had now demonstrated that already at eleven years old, he was one of the leading virtuosi of the time; indeed his great reputation as a pianist dates from this third Vienna concert.  The press praised him highly, and many compared him to the wonderful genius, Mozart.  Adam Liszt wished him now to see more of the world, and make known his great talents, also to study further.  He decided to take the boy to Paris, for there lived the celebrated composer, Cherubini, at that time Director of the Paris Conservatoire.

On the way to Paris, concerts were given in various cities.  In Munich he was acclaimed “a second Mozart.”  In Strassburg and Stuttgart he had great success.

Arrived in Paris, father and son visited the Conservatoire at once, for it would have been a fine thing for the boy to study there for a time, as it was the best known school for counterpoint and composition.  Cherubini, however, refused to even read the letters of recommendation, saying no foreigner, however talented, could be admitted to the French National School of Music.  Franz was deeply hurt by this refusal, and begged with tears to be allowed to come, but Cherubini was immovable.

However they soon made the acquaintance of Ferdinand Paer, who offered to give the child lessons in composition.

Franz made wonderful progress, both in this new line of study, and in becoming known as a piano virtuoso.  Having played in a few of the great houses, he soon found himself the fashion; everybody was anxious for “le petit Litz” as he was called, to attend and play at their soirees.  Franz thus met the most distinguished musicians of the day.  When he played in public the press indulged in extravagant praise, calling him “the eighth wonder of the world,” “another Mozart,” and the like.  Of course the father was overjoyed that his fondest hopes were being realized.  Franz stood at the head of the virtuosi, and in composition he was making rapid strides.  He even attempted an operetta, “Don Sancho,” which later had several performances.

The eminent piano maker, Erard, who had a branch business in London and was about to start for that city, invited Liszt to accompany him and bring Franz.  They accepted this plan, but in order to save expense, it was decided that mother Liszt, who had joined them in Paris, should return to Austria and stay with a sister till the projected tours were over.

Franz was saddened by this decision, but his entreaties were useless; his father was stern.  The separation was a cruel one for the boy.  For a long time thereafter the mere mention of his mother’s name would bring tears.

In May, 1824, father and son, with Erard, started for England, and on June 21 Franz gave his first public concert in London.  He had already played for the aristocracy in private homes, and had appeared at Court by command of King George IV.  The concert won him great success, though the English were more reserved in their demonstrations, and not like the impulsive, open-hearted French people.  He was happy to return to Paris, after the London season, and to resume his playing in the French salons.